Syntax Rules (DATE command)

  • You can specify more than one keyword per command.
  • If a keyword is specified more than once, only the last one is executed.
  • Keywords that describe long time periods (YEAR, QUARTER, MONTH) cannot be used on the same command with keywords that describe short time periods (WEEK, DAY, HOUR, MINUTE, SECOND).
  • Keywords CYCLE and OBS can be used with any other keyword.
  • The lowest-order keyword specified should correspond to the level at which observations occur. For example, if observations are daily, the lowest-order keyword should be DAY.
  • Keywords (except MINUTE) can be abbreviated down to the first character. MINUTE must have at least two characters (MI) to distinguish it from keyword MONTH.
  • Keywords and additional specifications are separated by commas or spaces.